Execution in Belarus of Siarhei Vostrykau
In the statement by the Spokesperson on the execution in Belarus of Siarhei Vostrykau, the European Union again reaffirms its strong opposition to capital punishment in all circumstances. Indeed the continued application of the death penalty goes counter to Belarus’ stated willingness to engage with the international community, including the European Union, on the matter and to consider the introduction of a moratorium on the use of the death penalty. The European Union urges Belarus, the only country in Europe still applying capital punishment, to commute the remaining death sentences and to introduce without delay a moratorium on the death penalty as a first step towards its abolition.